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Master of Science in Physics (M.S.)

Minimum Total for Graduation: 30 hours

The requirements for the M.S. in physics are based on a core of 12 semester hours in advanced mechanics, electricity and magnetism, and quantum mechanics. 3 hours of seminar are required, and 6 hours of credit are given for the thesis. In consultation with an advisor, you will select at least 9 additional hours in areas of specific value to you. The program is normally completed in 2 years. There is no qualifying examination, and no foreign language is required.

If you have a special interest in astronomy, you would usually choose Observational Astronomy (AST 562 offered during the fall semester of odd-numbered years) and Astrophysics (AST 563 offered during the spring semester of even-numbered years).

You can also opt for Independent Study (PHY 790) or cognate courses in disciplines closely related to your area of specialization, such as courses from the Science of Advanced Materials Ph.D. program (SAM 620, SAM 630, SAM 700, SAM 710, and/or SAM 720).

Recent Theses

A list of recent thesis titles from CMU Department of Physics graduate students includes:

Electronic Structure of Oxide/Semiconductor Interfaces

Dendrimer-assisted Energy Conversion Processes

Problem-based Learning in an Introductory Physics Course

Relative Line Strengths for the Hyperfine Doublets in Cesium

Rheology of Saline and Polysaccharide Systems

Structural Study of Nanocrystalline K-Li-Mn-O-I

Employment of Graduates

Recent physics graduate students from CMU have found employment in industry, in four-year colleges, and in museums and public planetariums. Many also continued graduate studies in a variety of fields including optics, nuclear physics, materials science, medical physics and engineering.